What is the significance of Scotland's sea lochs for carbon storage?

Scotland's sea lochs are significant because they bury an estimated 84,000 tonnes of organic carbon annually in their sediments, acting as crucial natural carbon sinks.

What action are MSPs urged to take regarding Scotland's sea lochs?

MSPs are urged to introduce new protections by banning dredging and trawling in key parts of Scotland's sea lochs to preserve their carbon storage capabilities.

What is the role of environmental groups in protecting sea lochs?

Environmental groups advocate for targeted protections for sea lochs, calling it an effective 'quick win' for climate action and urging immediate measures to safeguard these blue carbon habitats.

Home / Environment / Scotland's Sea Lochs: Hidden Carbon Havens Under Threat

Scotland's Sea Lochs: Hidden Carbon Havens Under Threat

26 Jan

•

Summary

Sea lochs can store 84,000 tonnes of organic carbon annually.
MSPs urged to ban dredging and trawling in key sea lochs.
Environmental groups call for urgent action on blue carbon.

Scotland's Sea Lochs: Hidden Carbon Havens Under Threat

Scottish Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) are being called upon to implement new protections for the nation's sea lochs, a move lauded as a simple yet significant contribution to combating climate change. These lochs, scientifically termed fjords, are crucial for carbon sequestration, with research indicating that 84,000 tonnes of organic carbon are buried annually in their sediments. Labour MSP Sarah Boyack has proposed an amendment to the Natural Environment Bill to ban dredging and trawling in significant portions of these sea lochs.

Environmental organizations, including Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, strongly support this initiative, describing it as an effective "quick win" for climate action. They argue that Scotland already possesses sufficient evidence to justify immediate protection for these carbon-rich areas. The Sustainable Inshore Fisheries Trust (Sift) also backs the amendment, emphasizing that safeguarding these lochs will not only lock up substantial carbon but also position Scotland as a global leader in marine protection and help mitigate climate breakdown.